After 4 years of ownership of my 2000 Chrysler [Canada] Intrepid 2.7 engine, the engine light would come on, the tranny would power down, when I would step on gas to enter freeway or pass the car would jack rabbit [hop] like it was slipping, when the light would go would all would be well, no problems accelerating, etc. When engine light would come on oil light would flicker at red lights or idling, revving engine would solve it, sometimes car would just stall, also noticed that battery would not charge when light engine light was on. I suspected that since I only had these problems when the engine light came on, I figured it was electrical.

Since I didn't' have a "Scope" I pulled the battery, which is a pain in the ass on the intrepid. The battery itself was corroded, cables as well, and even water levels in battery were low [main. free battery]. Disconnecting battery clears the memory completely. I cleaned up the battery, cables, etc. and reconnected.

All the issue's regarding tranny and oil light vanished for about 2 months, then the engine light came on, however it would go out very quickly, oil light sometimes flickers and again only rarely now. Obviously this was a sensor problem. I did some research and changed the "Crankshaft Position Sensor [cp sensor], cost $75.00 [CAD], easy fix, took about 25 minutes. That was 4 months ago and I have not had a repeat of this problem at all. Engine or oil light does not come on.

All engines sludge up eventually, depending on model/manufacturer, check your oil regularly, if your oil is topped up, changed regularly and car is maintained regularly you should be fine. If the light flickers at an intersection or idling, don't sweat it. Turn off engine, check the oil, if its fine then don't sweat it. Its more than likely a sensor issue. If a garage gives you a high repair bill [as most will when they see the intrepid] get a second and third opinion first. [saying drivetrain shot or engine sludged up] Not saying all repair shops do this, however be careful. I use bottle of ATF tranny fluid to clean out sludge before changing oil to clean engine, let it run for about 20 minutes then change oil and filter. Tranny fluid is mostly a detergent to keep gears clean.

My intrepid is 11 years old and works great. I have had very little trouble with mine, and very reliable. I also must mention that I use Lucas Oil Products with my vehicles. Transmission Fix Fluid will fix any slippage issues quickly.

If you get your oil changed at an oil change facility, DO NOT USE THEIR ENGINE FLUSH TREATMENTS!!!! They are dangerous for new and old vehicles. They use heat to melt sludge or oil contaminants which also does part damage. DO NOT USE THEM. YOUR PAYING FOR SOMETHING THAT WILL ONLY DO DAMAGE TO YOUR CAR.

There are much milder treatments cheaper and work much better. Just using 1 litre ATF Fluid before regular changes works just as well, free's up sticking lifters etc.

Jinglejazz Alberta, Canada, Eh!